What is OLM File – Definition & How to Create .olm File?

olm file

OLM file is a data file of supported by Mac Outlook. It is a file format that is used to store mailbox data like emails, contacts, calendars, notes, task, journals. It cannot be opened by any version of Windows Outlook. OLM file was first introduce with Mac Outlook 2011 as its master repository file format to store local data of Outlook. After that, it is supported by all versions of Mac Outlook i.e., 2019, 2016, and 2011. It is a database file that is comprises of various mailboxes in it. A single OLM file can store all Outlook folders of a user and stores messages including associated archived data.

NOTE: By default Mac Outlook creates OLK file to stores its mailbox data. Whenever a user needs to export and archive Mac Outlook data, he or she can create OLM file and use it accordingly. To know more about OLK file, read What is OLK file?

However, this OLM file is not created by default by the Mac Outlook. To generate OLM file, there are different export options offered by Mac Outlook. In addition, if users want, they can filter the information also that need to be reside in that file. When it comes to the maximum size of OLM file, it is not specified anywhere. But, usually OLM file does not exceed 2 GB in order to prevent corruption issues.

What All Data Items Can OLM File Store?

Like any other email client’s data file, Outlook for Mac or OLM file also stores complete mailbox data. It is used as a software’s internal format that stores email messages with attachments, contacts, calendars, notes, tasks, journals and any other application data stored by the user.

Point to Remember: Mac Outlook 2011 keeps all its data in a single database file that an end user can export whenever wants. And, always keep in mind that Mac Outlook initially does not store data in the OLM format.

Where are Mac Outlook OLM files Stored?

Most of the times users look for the default location of OLM file on Mac machine. But, there is one doubt that confuse everyone, i.e., OLM file is not by default created by the Mac Outlook. So, there is no default location, a user can export OLM file at any desired location on local machine. By default, Mac Outlook creates OLK file whose location varies from version to version of Outlook.

How to Create OLM File in Mac Outlook 2019 / 2016 / 2011 ?

There are many users who wants to free up some of the storage space in the mailbox. At that point, users want to export Mac Outlook data in OLM format. It is one of the best way to archive mailbox data. Now, to do the same, follow the steps mentioned below:

In Mac Outlook 2019 / 2016

In Mac Outlook 2011

Conclusion

OLM is Outlook for Mac database file that stores complete mailbox data items in it. For example, emails, notes, contacts, etc. OLM file is like any other data file and it is similar to Outlook Windows data file. As users keeps on searching about OLM file, it is an informative page that will let you know all technical points like What is OLM file and where it is located on Mac machine.